Dashanbao Black-necked Crane National Nature Reserve

Dashanbao Black-necked Crane National Nature Reserve, established in 1990 and designated a Ramsar Wetland (2004), protects:

The largest wintering population of black-necked cranes (Grus nigricollis), with 2,260 individuals recorded in 2024.
5958 hectares of alpine marshland (31% of the reserve), critical for migratory birds like white cranes and Asian barred owlets.
737 plant species and 286 vertebrates, including 12 nationally protected animals (e.g., golden eagles).

Black-necked Crane Wintering (Nov–Mar)
- Witness dawn crane dances at Dashanbao Wetland or Tiao Dun River. Local rangers use whistles to interact with cranes during feeding.
Landscapes
- "Sea of Clouds" Sunrise: View from Jiguan Mountain (3,364m).
- Alpine Lakes: Dashanzi Lake mirrors snow-capped peaks.
Cultural Heritage
- Ancient Tea Horse Road traders once traversed these wetlands.
- Yi and Tibetan villages offer homestays with yak butter tea.

"Human Retreat, Crane Advance" Policy: Relocated 1,200+ residents to reduce disturbance.
Food Source Bases: Grow potatoes and oats for cranes.
Ecotourism: Electric shuttles and CNY 62 entry fee fund protection.

Best Time: Dec–Feb for crane congregations; May–Oct for wildflowers.
Transport:
- From Kunming: 5-hour drive to Zhaotong, then 2-hour bus to reserve.
Essentials:
- Altitude prep: Carry oxygen cans (available onsite).
- Gear: Binoculars, thermal clothing (-10°C winters).

Dashanbao is a testament to human-wildlife harmony, where the haunting calls of cranes echo across China’s "roof of the world."

Introduction